The 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is one of the first plug-in hybrid cars to be officially rated in the new, more realistic real-world testing procedure, with an emissions figure of just 46g/km, and a maximum EV (electric vehicle) range of 45km.

Initially, it may appear that the 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is not much different to the 2018 model, but a number of important improvements have been made. Mitsubishi have added extra adhesive to the pre-painted car body structure in order to strengthen the bodyshell, and this has the effect of enhansing torsional rigidity, so the car flexes less through bends, and over bumps. Additionally, Mitsubishi have changed tyre brands, from Toyo to Yokohama, for better road-holding ability, while there is also a more responsive steering rack, and the suspension has been recalibrated too.

A new, 2.4-litre petrol engine uses its MIVEC variable-valve timing system to seamlessly switch between Otto and Atkinson combustion cycles depending on the driving situation. It produces more power compared to the older unit (135bhp vs 121bhp) and more torque across a wider rev range (211Nm vs 190Nm). The Outlander PHEV’s electric powertrain has also improved, with the rear electric motor now producing 95bhp (giving a combined total of 230bhp), and a drive battery with a 10% higher output and increased capacity to 13.8kWh. The 0-100km/h acceleration benchmark is dispatched in 10.5-seconds, some 0.3-seconds faster than before.

Now available in 3 specifications – Intense, Instyle, and S-Edition, the new Outlander PHEV benefits from a reduction in price (up to 20%) when compared to the previous model, with the entry-level Intense model starting at just €39,900, Instyle priced from €43,900, and S-Edition available from €47,500 (all inclusive of a VRT reduction and SEAI grant for private customers, but excluding delivery & related charges).

Having achieved a 5-Star Euro NCAP rating, the Outlander PHEV incorporates top safety equipment including seven airbags, three ISO-FIX child seat anchors, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist, Active Stability, and Traction Control. It also features Mitsubishi’s renowned Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) with NORMAL, SNOW, LOCK, and SPORT modes, all underpinned by Mitsubishi’s RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body.

My test car was a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV in mid-range ‘Instyle’ specification, and was finished in striking Orient Red metallic paint, which really did compliment the distinctive good looks of Mitsubishi’s large SUV. Cabin quality and refinement in the new Outlander PHEV is terrific, with the car proving itself to be quieter, and more solid than ever before. On the road, the car handles with precision, while body control through bends is confidence-inspiring. A new steering rack endows the car with quicker steering responses that are immediately noticable from the first steering input on the road, while making the Outlander easier to drive through narrow streets. Paddles behind the steeering wheel can be used to adjust the effect of brake regeneration, making one-pedal driving a possibility. The delightful quilted leather seats in my test car were very comfortable, with just the right amount of padding in areas where it is needed most, while also adding to the visual appeal and ambience of the cabin. Other revisions to the cabin include a tweaked instrument cluster, plus air vents and a USB port for rear seat passengers.

Standing almost 4.7M long, and 1.71M tall, the Outlander is a large, well proportioned SUV, and is capable of consuming as little as 2.0-litres of petrol for every 100km driving cycle. This outstanding fuel economy, combined with annual road tax of just €170, makes the new Outlander PHEV a solid financial proposition, while helping the environment in the process. Regular charging from an AC 230V 10A charger will take approximately 5.5 hours, approximately 4 hours from a 16A charger, and as little as 25 minutes (up to 80% charge) from a quick-charge station.

Available only with five seats, the new Outlander PHEV offers cargo space of 463-litres with the rear seats in the upright position, but this can be increased dramatically by folding the seats when required. For families looking for an additional 2 seats, Mitsubishi does offer their Outlander with a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine, and 7 seats as standard.

The new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a magnificent SUV in every way – from its relaxed driving characteristics, to its exceptional fuel economy, extensive standard equipment levels, and its terrific off-road ability. Mitsubishi vehicles have always enjoyed a strong reputation for reliability, and Mitsubishi Motors Ireland are proving this by providing an 8-Year/150,000km warranty as standard on all passenger vehicles. Also included is a free 5-Year Mitsubishi Assistance Package (MAP), with mobility guaranteed in more than 30 countries throughout Europe, should you ever need assistance in the event of a breakdown, accident, theft, or vandalism. While the demand for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV’s) intensifies, the new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is now even more appealing than ever before.